For what is plywood commonly used in building construction?

Plywood is widely used in building construction primarily for sheathing and subflooring due to its strength and stability. It is created by gluing together several thin layers of wood veneer, which enhances its structural integrity and makes it less likely to warp or crack compared to solid wood. This stability is crucial in construction where the material needs to withstand loads and stresses, making it an ideal choice for subfloors that support flooring and for sheathing that provides structural support for walls and roofs.

Plywood's versatility also allows it to bond well with adhesives and other materials, making it suitable for a variety of construction applications. Additionally, the layers in plywood provide resistance to expansion and contraction due to moisture, which is a common concern with other types of wood products. Its effectiveness in these applications makes it a fundamental material in modern building practices.

Other options, while related to construction, do not match the primary uses of plywood. A decorative finish typically involves materials that offer aesthetic qualities, while plywood is not usually selected for visual appeal alone. As for roofing materials, other lightweight options are more common, and insulation for energy efficiency usually involves specialized products designed to reduce heat transfer rather than structural materials like plywood. Thus, the focus on strength and stability for sheathing